Nelson Stratton

Gunney was 77 years young when he peacefully passed away Thursday, Oct. 17, 2013.

He was born Aug. 15, 1936 to parents, Clarence and Elizabeth (Kusian) Stratton in Toledo, Ohio. Gunney is survived by his wife Violet of 15 years; daughter Robin Smith; son Keith Young and step-sons, Gregory Franks, Martin Franks, Michael Frank; daughters, Connie Gurney and Lisa Easter. Also, his granddaughter, Tish McCallum; brothers, Joe Pollick, Ray Pollick; sister, Daisy Matskin. He was also surrounded by a very large group of grandchildren and great grandchildren who loved him as he loved them. Gunney’s passions were his wife, family, friends and numerous veteran’s too many to name. He was an avid fisherman, photographer, gardener, woodworker, gold panner, Seahawks and Mariners fan as well as modeling railroader! Gunney enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps in 1955. He served for 16 years retiring as a Sergeant with 2 tours in Vietnam. Earning the NDSML PUC GCM w/2 stars; AFEXMDL Meritorious Mast CAR; Meritorious Mast, VCM (1960) RVN Cross of Gallantry w/Palm & Frame VSM w/7stars, Meritorious mast! He was Co-Founder with Paul Ridley of the NW Cascade Mountain Vietnam Veterans Rap Group in 1980 which later became known as the Forward Vietnam Veterans Group! He will surely be missed by all who came to know him. Hoo Rah!

A Celebration of Gunney’s Life will be held with a Potluck at the family home 3961 Griffith Ave., Bellingham, WA on Saturday, November 2, 2013 , from Noon till 3:00 PM followed by Military Honors with the American Legion Post #7 Honor Guard and the U.S. Marine Corps Honor Guard.